Highwayman (Banditry pt 2 of 3)

Bloody Violent History

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2y ago 44:46

MP3•Episode home

1. Intro 2. Biblical & Classical Highwayman 3. 18th & 19th Century bandits 4. Decline p.s. Backpack murders

There has always been highway robbery. From the tale of the good Samaritan, through ancient China and onto the infamous and murderous Thugees of India, these thieves and cut-throats have made such an impact that their legend and reputation endure. Yet it was in 18th and 19th century Europe, and England in particular, that the romance and modern-day image of the highwayman were forged. There was Dick Turpin and Black Bess, and there was the Wicked Lady. These stories, many untrue, have dominated books and movies ever since. But they represented a high watermark of road building and stagecoaches, and it was all too brief, for urbanisation and policing – not to mention the blunderbuss - outpaced and outgunned these villains on the road.

Where there is unprotected road travel and wealth on the move, there will always be robbers and victims. So deliver up your purse and we will let you enjoy this podcast.

So it goes,

Tom Assheton & James Jackson

Reading reference:

The Highwayman by Alfred Noyes read by David Hartley